Source: Hefner near Minors deal with Mets

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The Mets have agreed to a Minor League deal with right-hander Jeremy Hefner after non-tendering him last week, according to a source. The team has not commented on the deal because it is not yet official.

Hefner, who posted a 4.34 ERA in 24 games last season, will spend next season rehabbing from Tommy John surgery to repair a torn MCL in his right elbow. He will be able to use the Mets' facilities in Port St. Lucie, Fla., to rehab, though not as a member of the 40-man roster and not on a Major League salary.

In exchange, the Mets have Hefner back under team control in the hopes that he can help them as soon as September 2014. Hefner underwent his surgery, which typically requires a 12-14-month recovery, in August.